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Is cracking my knuckles bad for me?

November 9, 2026 · 5 min

Show notes

If you’re asking yourself whether cracking your knuckles is a bad thing, we'll take it as a given that you do crack your knuckles. You’ve probably also been told at some point that doing so will give you arthritis, most likely by someone already annoyed at you doing it!

So, just how seriously should you be taking the know-it-alls? As you’re probably aware, many people find the noise pretty off-putting, or just downright annoying. But many people say they get a physical release from cracking their joints, leading to a feeling of looseness and a brief increase in mobility. Although a lot of the time, it’s simply an unconscious habit.

Why is knuckle cracking so satisfying? Where does the noise come from? Is it harmful in the long run? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

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A Bababam Originals podcast written and produced by Joseph Chance.

First broadcast : 06/11/2022

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